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manipulatives

Pattern blocks geometry

Build polygons and discover angles, symmetry and fractions.

Quick answer

Pattern blocks are colourful geometric shapes you can use to build patterns, create designs, and explore maths concepts like angles, symmetry, and fractions.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to use pattern blocks to build shapes, explore angles, and discover how fractions work through equal parts. Success signs:
  • You can name the shapes and their special features
  • You can build a design using pattern blocks
  • You can find equal parts in your shapes
  • You can describe how shapes fit together

Why this matters

Pattern blocks help you understand how shapes work together, how angles measure turns, and how parts make a whole. You use these skills when building with LEGO, designing your room, or even playing board games. They help you think about how things fit together in a logical way, which is useful in maths, art, and even science.

How it works

Pattern blocks are flat shapes that fit together perfectly. You can use them to:
  • Build new shapes by joining smaller ones
  • Find angles by seeing how shapes turn
  • Learn fractions by splitting shapes into equal parts
They come in different shapes:
  • Small triangles
  • Large triangles
  • Blue rhombuses
  • Red trapeziums
  • Green hexagons
  • Yellow squares
Each shape has a special size and angle that helps it fit with others. You can use these shapes to build anything you imagine!

Examples you can see

Let’s start with a simple example. Say you have a yellow square and a red trapezium. You can put them together to make a new shape. Try it yourself!
Shape How many sides How many angles What it looks like
Small triangle 3 3 Pointy
Large triangle 3 3 Wider pointy
Blue rhombus 4 4 Like a diamond
Red trapezium 4 4 Like a roof
Green hexagon 6 6 Like a honeycomb
Yellow square 4 4 Like a box
Try making a pattern using just triangles. You can make a row like this: small triangle, large triangle, small triangle, large triangle. What happens if you keep going?

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: Build a Pattern Kingdom You are the ruler of Pattern Kingdom, and your job is to build a castle using only pattern blocks. Here’s your quest: 1st time: Use a green hexagon for the main tower. 2nd time: Add a red trapezium to the side. 3rd time: Place a yellow square on top. 4th time: Fill in the gaps with small triangles. 5th time: Add a blue rhombus to the front. Can you make a castle that fits together? What shapes do you use most?

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Thinking that all triangles are the same size.
    Why it happens: You might mix up the small triangle with the large triangle.
    Fix: Remember that the small triangle is smaller than the large triangle, even though they both have three sides.
  • Mistake: Trying to fit a square into a triangle shape.
    Why it happens: You might not notice the shape doesn’t match.
    Fix: Look carefully at the edges and angles to see which shapes fit together.
  • Mistake: Thinking that all shapes are the same size.
    Why it happens: You might be used to using the same shape over and over.
    Fix: Count the sides and angles to compare shapes.

Parent and carer guide

You can help your child by:
  • Letting them explore the shapes freely first
  • Asking questions like, "What shape fits here?" or "How many triangles make a hexagon?"
  • Encouraging them to make their own patterns
  • Not worrying if they make mistakes – it’s part of learning!
  • Using the shapes to talk about real-life examples like tiles on the floor or honeycomb patterns
You can also try this with them:
  • Build a simple design together
  • Count how many of each shape you use
  • Make a pattern and ask them to continue it

Practice questions

  1. How many small triangles fit into one large triangle?
  2. How many red trapeziums fit into one green hexagon?
  3. Can you make a square using only yellow squares and small triangles?
  4. What shape can you make using two blue rhombuses?
  5. How many sides does a green hexagon have?
Answers:
  1. Two small triangles fit into one large triangle
  2. Two red trapeziums fit into one green hexagon
  3. Yes, you can make a square using two small triangles
  4. You can make a rhombus or a hexagon
  5. A green hexagon has six sides

FAQ

What are pattern blocks used for?

Pattern blocks help children learn about shapes, angles, symmetry, and fractions by building and exploring with them.

Can I use pattern blocks to learn about fractions?

Yes! You can use pattern blocks to show how parts make a whole. For example, if a hexagon is one whole, then a triangle is one-sixth of it.

Are pattern blocks good for young children?

Yes, pattern blocks are great for ages 4 and up. They help with fine motor skills, creativity, and understanding geometry.

How do I keep pattern blocks clean?

Pattern blocks are usually made of plastic or wood. Keep them in a box or container and clean them with a damp cloth if needed.

Can I make my own pattern blocks?

Yes! You can draw shapes on paper or cut them out from card. You can also use pattern block templates from online resources.